Creating a garden that exudes life and colour throughout the entire year is a rewarding challenge for gardeners. The month of July is a pivotal time in the UK when gardens are in full bloom, radiating with vibrant shades and captivating fragrances.
As you endeavour to design a space that maintains interest and beauty across all seasons, focusing on plants that flower in July can add a unique splash of summer charm.
This guide explores ten extraordinary plants that not only shine in July but also contribute to an enchanting garden that engages the senses year-round.
Top Tip
Opting for drought-tolerant plants can help minimise water use during the summer months.
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10 Plants in Bloom in July in the UK:
- Echinacea
- Achillea
- Rudbeckia
- Helenium
- Agapanthus
- Zinnias
- Sunflowers
- Crocosmia
- Salvia Nemorosa
- Pot Marigold
1. Echinacea
Echinacea, commonly known as Coneflower, showcases large, daisy-like flowers with prominent central cones. A favourite among butterflies and bees.
Growing Conditions: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant once established.
2. Achillea
Achillea or Yarrow produces flat clusters of small flowers, often in shades of yellow, pink, or red. It’s a great filler in borders.
Growing Conditions: Thrives in full sun, well-drained soil. Good drought and heat resistance.
3. Rudbeckia
Rudbeckia, known as Black-eyed Susan, offers golden-yellow petals and dark central disks. A cheerful addition to any garden.
Growing Conditions: Enjoys full sun to partial shade in average, well-drained soil.
4. Helenium
We previously mentioned Helenium, but its repeat appearance underscores its summer brilliance. Daisy-like, warm-hued flowers light up the garden.
Growing Conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil. Taller varieties may need staking.
5. Agapanthus
Agapanthus, or African Lily, is famous for its blue or white spherical flower heads. An elegant choice for borders or pots.
Growing Conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil, and shelter from strong winds.
6. Zinnias
Zinnias are annuals with bright, bold colours and a wide range of sizes and shapes. Excellent for cutting and enjoying indoors.
Growing Conditions: Full sun and well-drained soil. Keep watered but avoid wetting foliage to prevent mildew.
7. Sunflowers
Sunflowers, with their iconic tall stems and bright yellow petals, are synonymous with summer. A joy for gardeners of all ages.
Growing Conditions: Full sun, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Provide support for taller varieties.
8. Crocosmia
Crocosmia offers arching stems with tubular flowers in red, orange, or yellow. A dramatic accent plant.
Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil.
9. Salvia nemorosa
Salvia nemorosa features spikes of purple or blue flowers above aromatic foliage. A lovely choice for attracting pollinators.
Growing Conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil. Deadhead to encourage repeated blooming.
10. Pot Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
Pot Marigold offers cheery, orange or yellow blooms that can even be used in cooking. A versatile and resilient plant.
Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade, moderate moisture, well-drained soil.
Final thoughts
Building a garden that looks good all year round requires thoughtful selection and an understanding of each plant’s unique characteristics. By incorporating these beautiful July bloomers into your design, you are taking a step closer to creating a garden that resonates with life and colour all year round.
Consider incorporating evergreens into your garden; their year-round foliage can provide structure and continuity, adding to the garden’s overall charm through every season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What bedding plants flower the longest?
Zinnias (Zinnia) and Marigolds are renowned for their long-lasting flowering, often blooming from late spring well into the autumn months.
Q. What is the longest flowering perennial in the UK?
Rudbeckia (Rudbeckia), also known as Black-Eyed Susan, is among the longest flowering perennials in the UK, often blooming from mid-summer into early autumn.
Q. How can I ensure continuous blooming in my garden?
By selecting a combination of plants that flower at different times, including both perennials and annuals, you can create a garden that enjoys continuous colour and interest throughout the year.
Q. What plants are suitable for a dry summer garden?
Drought-tolerant plants such as Echinacea (Echinacea) and Achillea (Achillea millefolium) are ideal for dry summer conditions, requiring less watering while still thriving in the UK’s climate.
